• Wired Chancellor Gerhard Schröder yesterday announced a 10-point strategy to boost internet use by Germans, including training for the unemployed and online computers for all schools and libraries. But caution was indicated by a pledge to put all government services on the net within five years - aeons in cyberspace time - and reliance on partnerships with private firms.

• Shopping E-business consultancy Nettec is seeking acquisitions in Europe, chief executive Brian Gunn said yesterday in announcing the company's interim results. Turnover grew from £2m to £7.5m from the first half of 1999 but pre-tax losses rose to £3m from £375,000.